Audio-Technica AT897 Microphone Review
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When it comes to recording sound on the go, film, and video enthusiasts have a range of different options available for the job. Handheld, lapel and even wireless microphones are all options, and depending on the job can be quite serviceable indeed. However, if you’re looking for quality sound for quality video, then you might want to aim a little higher with your equipment.
For audio quality that’s pristine and detailed, you’ll want to invest in a shotgun microphone. Shotgun microphones are an industry favorite thanks to their directionality, with noise exclusion that’s simply unmatched. This focused recording is especially important when recording outside, where conditions are less than ideal.
Shotgun mics are an essential part of any filmmaker’s arsenal, but unfortunately, a good mic can cost a pretty penny. For indie filmmakers, digital journalists, and casual users who are simply looking for a better sound, investing hundreds of dollars into a mic might not be the most attractive option. Luckily, their AT897 Audio-Technica has the perfect solution. Find out more in this Audio Technica AT897 review below.
About the Audio-Technica AT897 Microphone
| Polar Pattern | Line + gradient |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Impedance | 200 ohms (phantom power) ; 300 ohms (battery) |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 77 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa |
| Maximum SPL | 129 dB SPL (phantom power), 115 dB SPL (battery power) |
| Power Options | 11-52V DC, 2 mA typical (phantom power) ; 1.5V AA/UM3 (battery) |
When you’re an up-and-coming videographer, affordability is a huge consideration. After all, you’re already investing tons into your camera, and equally high-quality audio equipment can come at a steep price. Luckily for filmmakers on a budget, the Audio Technica AT897 is here to prove that you don’t have to sacrifice great sound for affordability and portability.
Since its release over a decade ago, the AT 897 has been the go-to shotgun mic for thousands of videographers and filmmakers. The base model hasn’t changed much, and it’s easy to use and compact, making it ideal for recording on the go. While the Audio Technica 897 might not be the top shotgun mic in the industry, it’s a well-loved favorite for many reasons you’ll see below.
Audio-Technica AT897 Microphone Pros
The Audio Technica AT 897 is an 11-inch short shotgun microphone designed for field audio recording in film, TV, and video productions. Compact and lightweight, and can be conveniently mounted on a DV camcorder or camera without adding too much to the weight. Its highly focused polar pattern also allows it to capture both long- and short-distance sound sources without too much background interference. For filmmakers who are just starting out, it’s the ideal field partner.
Designed to Work
When recording for film and television work, the visuals matter almost as much as the audio. In addition to capturing rich, faithful sound with clarity, sound engineers also have to ensure that their mics are both portable and out of frame. The AT 897 mic is perfect for this with its short, 11-inch barrel and easy mountability. This microphone can be conveniently attached for out of sight, out of mind recording, and the phantom and battery power options allow for use no matter what the recording situation.
Just the Right Sound
When recording outside studio conditions, all sound engineers know that they’ll need to wrestle with unwanted background noise. The AT 897 shotgun mic makes this decision easy with its line + gradient polar pattern. Line + gradient polar patterns are an especial feature of Audio-Technica mics, and can be used to mic sound at great distances. This is especially useful for sound sources that are off-camera, as the intense directionality allows for better sound cancellation and focus.
Mic Your Needs
Despite its deceptively affordable price, the AT897 mic has all the quality and options that you’ll need in a microphone. It has a switchable 80Hz low cut filter with a 12dB octave slope that reduces the mic’s sensitivity to low frequency noise like traffic rumble, ventilation, and mechanical vibrations. For situations where phantom power may not be available, it’s also operational for up to 1200 hours on a single AA battery. On the downside, however, the AT897 on battery mode has no on/off switch and is immediately operational upon connection to the camera, which can be a little inconvenient.
Clean, Rich Sound
All of these specifications sound nice on paper, but how does the AT897 handle out in the field? The answer is just as advertised. While using the microphone in a handheld configuration may lead to some annoying handling noise, overall the sound is clear and precise. Outdoors, the audio sounds full and natural, with no unfortunate ambient or background noise. Still, users may want to invest in a quality windscreen or a fur-covered zeppelin in order to reduce chances of wind or background noise.
Crisp Vocals
Like most directional mics, when you’re not using the Audio-Technica AT897 outside, you’re sure to find a great use for it in the studio. With its incredible focus and clear sound, you have yourself a great vocal mic onhand. Of course, if your aim is to get the most out of the AT897, field recording is the way to go. But if you’re open to a range of uses, it does great for podcasting and radio broadcasting, and captures all the depth of the human voice with no extra fiddling needed.
Pros and Cons of the Audio-Technica AT897
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Great for sit-down interviews ✔ Compatible with a field recorder, audio recorder, mixer adapter, and more ✔ Produces a rich sound | ✖️ Narrow polar pattern ✖️ Roll-off switch is not easily accessible |
What People Are Saying
When it comes to affordable, quality shotgun microphones, the Audio-Technica AT897 is among the best of the best. With a quality build and excellent engineering for the price, you can’t go wrong with this shotgun microphone purchase. Sure, there are other, better sounding microphones out there, but if you’re just starting out then the AT897 is more than fantastic.
“I do a lot of interviews. Bought my first one after researching online and was really impressed with it. When my video business continued to grow, I picked up a second for 2-person interviews and they match very, very well. I’m also an audio engineer and have used this for foley and even a ride cymbal mic. Great rejection and very forgiving.”
Reviewer – Micheal From Sweetwater
Where to Buy the Audio-Technica AT897 Microphone
With a well defined, if slightly crispy sound, convenient power options, high directionality, and great portability, the Audio-Technica AT897 is a great companion for micing on the go. For beginners and filmmakers on a budget who just need one mic for their recording needs, the AT897 is more than enough to keep you satisfied. Find the best deals for the Audio-Technica AT897 Microphone here.
Audio-Technica AT897
The Audio-Technica AT897 is a top choice for sit-down interviews, offering exceptional performance in capturing clear and high-quality audio.
Versatility is a key feature of this microphone, as it seamlessly integrates with various devices such as field recorders, audio recorders, mixer adapters, and more, expanding its usability across different recording setups.
The AT897’s sound reproduction is characterized by its richness and depth, ensuring an immersive and professional audio experience. Whether used in the field or studio, this microphone proves to be a reliable companion for capturing pristine sound in interviews and beyond.
